Beijing pairs two mega-airports with clear shoulder-season windows for better fares.
Beijing prices are strongly seasonal. Around Lunar New Year and Golden Week, long-haul fares can jump fast, while late February, March, and late November often open better value if your dates are flexible by a few days.
Two very different gateways serve Beijing: Capital (PEK) for the traditional hub experience and Daxing (PKX) for a newer terminal with high-speed rail onward links. PEK is closer to many traditional hotel districts, while PKX makes onward travel to nearby cities surprisingly efficient.
Competition on Beijing routes mixes Chinese network airlines with Gulf and European one-stop operators. Before you pay, compare total fare rules for baggage and changes, and check current visa or transit policy details early because eligibility depends on passport and exact onward routing.
Late February through March is often the best-value period once peak holiday demand eases. Late November can also produce lower fares before year-end travel ramps up. Prices usually rise around Golden Week and major summer travel periods.
Most nonstop London to Beijing flights are around 9 to 10.5 hours. One-stop options can be cheaper on some dates but usually add several hours. Return sectors are sometimes slightly shorter depending on winds and routing.
Visa rules for China vary by nationality and trip structure, so check official requirements before booking. Some travellers can use transit-without-visa policies when continuing to a third country under strict conditions. Always verify current entry rules for your passport and itinerary.
